Statement on Continued Protests at South African Public Universities
The Department of Higher Education and Training is extremely disturbed by the continued violent and criminal activity on some public university campuses, particularly at such an important point in the academic calendar for university students.
The Department condemns in the strongest possible terms the violent behaviour of small groups of protesting students who are bent on derailing the academic activities of others and those of the universities. Reports of arson, destruction of property and various forms of harassment and intimidation have been circulating over the past week, following the largely peaceful national student protests linked to #feesmustfall.
There have also been reports of groups of unidentified individuals wearing balaclavas leading violent protests. It is completely unacceptable that staff and students at public universities have been threatened with violence, extensive damage to public property and normal academic activities being negatively affected because of violence and intimidation.
The Department strongly supports the action taken by university managers to employ experienced security teams and seek the support of the South African Police Services (SAPS) to protect the majority of students and staff from violence and intimidation. Vice Chancellors have a responsibility to protect the lives and ensure the security of all students and staff on their campuses, including those who choose not to protest. They also have a responsibility to protect university property.
The postponement and cancellation of examinations will affect large groups of students and may prevent some students from being able to complete their degrees, graduate and enter the workplace as most students cannot afford such delays.
Universities exist for the public good and in a time of scarce resources, the country cannot afford the high costs of damage to existing public institutions. The Department rejects the speculation that the prevention of the effects of violence on people and property through engaging SAPS and security companies has led to the escalation of protests. Law enforcement agents are there to keep peace and protect the rights of all South Africans. The Department also supports the rights of institutions to engage the courts to secure university campuses from violent actions and intimidation.
The Department also encourages the actions of Vice Chancellors and university management teams to consult widely and implement all forms of communication and engagement with all groupings involved in the protests. The dialogue and engagement on campuses has been intense over this period and in the longer term, will stand universities and their stakeholders in good stead for future communication on campuses.
Formal channels exist on every public university campus to report the violation of rights of any individual by any group invited onto campus. Staff and students are encouraged to utilise these channels where necessary.
Universities must provide a conducive environment for students and staff to be productive. The current environment on many campuses make it difficult for many to study, and in some cases particularly at student residences, students are fearful for their safety. The Department supports the varied attempts of university management teams to peacefully resolve conflict on their campuses, but supports also their right and responsibility to enforce calm and protect students, staff and campus property.
The Department urges all stakeholders in the university sector to work towards ending all current protests and take the necessary steps wherever possible to restore calm to university campuses.
Statement issued by Khaye Nkwanyana Director: Media Liaison Officer, Department of Higher Education and Training, 16 November 2015
